Newton American Legion adapts cook-off fundraiser

Chili will be served this Saturday at the Newton American Legion Post 111.

Four years ago, the local nonprofit started its annual Chili Cook-Off fundraiser which has raised money and filled bellies to help support the local organization. Unfortunately, like most events, they have had to adapt this year to be mindful of the ongoing health crisis.

“Unfortunately, we have several American Legion’s in our area that are permanently closed due to COVID-19, we had to cancel several of our events ourselves,” Legion historian Mady McKim said.

McKim says the cook-off fundraiser was one of the events that has helped keep Newton’s legion going these past few years. In light of that, organizers have crafted a way to keep the event going.

To stay within the CDC guidelines, the legion will host a Drive-By Chili Dinner this year from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27 at 1101 W. Fourth St. S. People are invited to mask up and come into the legion facility to enjoy homemade chili with your choice of mild, medium or hot for $5. There will also be hot dogs and cinnamon rolls for sale for $2 a piece. To-go and drive-up options will be available to attendees who don’t feel comfortable gathering for the event.

McKim also said there will be memorabilia from last year’s 100 year celebration available for sale.

For more information, visit the Newton legion’s event page on Facebook, facebook.com/events/408467190450784/

Contact Pam Pratt at 641-792-3121 ext. 6530 or pampratt@newtondailynews.com